EORL CRABTREE Giants looking picture perfect
IT was picture day at the John Smith’s Stadium yesterday, when the squad all get their photos taken in the new kits.
We’ve played our first pre-season match and we’re now in the end game before the start of the campaign – that didn’t last long did it?
I remember picture day almost felt like a school day – you’d misbehave, put your team-mates off and generally irritate the media staff, but it was really just a moment of realisation that the season was nearly here.
Now, in my role as an ambassador for the club, the day is a time to deliver a special experience for our main partners, who come down and get a chance to sit next to head coach Simon Woolford in the heart of the
Giants team picture. The sponsors love it, and it’s a great way for them to feel closer to the team.
We’ve had a really great start to the year with last Friday’s Sponsors Lunch, with 270 guests having a great time meeting the team, networking with other businesses and getting a chance to hear from Simon, our managing director Richard Thewlis and new captain Aidan Sezer.
When the team comes in for its photo, it’s a great time to take stock and see where we’re at, and I have to say we look good for 2020.
The squad look fit, the new signings have gelled into the team dynamic well and what is noticeable is how confident our younger players look, they are completely different with a season of fullthrottle action under their belt.
We’ve had a chance to see the team in action, too, with the win over Halifax.
Jermaine McGillvary’s testimonial on Sunday was a great success for Jerry. The team played their part too, scoring some excellent tries and their play and combinations were excellent. In particular, the right edge of Joe Wardle, Jordan Turner and Jermaine himself looked outstanding together on both sides of the ball.
‘Triple J’ could be a great threat for us in 2020 as we look to make an impact on the Betfred Super League.
Special mention too for Jordan
Paga, who scored a belting try, dancing through the Fax defence to score. He’s yet more proof that our production line is churning out quality youngsters and, no doubt, it won’t be the last time we see that name in lights.
Those who missed the game also have a new option to catch up with the Giants, with the long-awaited arrival of GiantsTV. With subscriptions surpassing our expectations in the first few days, we’re really proud of the service. You’ll be able to see me as well, as I’ll be the host of the GiantsTV pre-match show.
If you want to see what you’ll be getting, the show from the Halifax Game has been uploaded with me, Matt Shaw, from the League Express, and Sean Evans, from GiantsTV, chatting through the ins and outs.
You can get your hands on a free month of the new service by entering the coupon code ‘Free_Month’ at checkout when purchasing a month pass. Try it out – we’re sure you’ll love it.